The Lakeland Center was cookin’ on March 20, 2010, when 66 volunteer chefs presented a variety of specialties to the hundreds of guests who attended Cookin’ Men 2010. With such an array of flavor offered in eight different food themed areas, including a Taste of the Deep South and a Taste of the International, there was something to please even the pickiest of palettes.

The prestigious Pink Panache award once again went home with Matthew Cantrall, whose specialty for the evening was Bear“nut”cessity. He also won the pink pig trophy in 2009. Each year, the award is presented to the chef who receives the most votes for best table display. To view photos from the event, please click on the “gallery” link.

Cookin’ Men is sponsored by Lakeland Regional Medical Center Foundation’s Women in Philanthropy giving society and was created to raise funds for women’s and children’s services at Lakeland Regional Medical Center and Lakeland Regional Cancer Center. Heading into its third year, the event is quickly becoming one of Polk County’s premier fund-raising events.

Preparation for the event begins months ahead of time when Women in Philanthropy members and Foundation staff seek potential volunteer chefs and sponsors. Plans are already under way for Cookin’ Men 2011, which will be held Saturday, March 5, at 7 p.m. For more information, please call 863.687.1296.

Cookin’ Men includes all the ingredients for a fun and entertaining evening, and it’s all for a great cause. We hope to see you in 2011!